Using Thermowells in Small Pipes – Application Note


Many times you need to measure the temperature of the contents of a small pipe.

Figure 1 shows how a pipe tee can be used in an elbow application.  A 2-inch tee and a ½ inch to 2-inch bushing allows a 4-inch thermowell to measure the temperature of the contents of a 2-inch water pipe.  Temperatures in pipes as small as 1-1/4 inch may be measured by this method.  In small pipes the diameter of the thermowell may become a significant obstruction, be sure to check for proper flow rates.

Fig. 1: 4-Inch Thermowell in a 2 Inch Water Pipe in an Elbow Application

Alternatively, Figure 2 shows how a 2–inch tee and a ½ inch to 2-inch bushing allows a 2-inch thermowell to measure the temperature of the contents of a 2-inch water pipe.  Be sure to use a thread sealant on the outside threads of the thermowell.

Thermowells Explained Fig4
Fig. 2: 2-Inch Thermowell in a 2-Inch Water Pipe in a Tee Configuration

If you have any questions, please call your BAPI representative.


Printable pdf Version of this Application Note